Man Utd face handing over millions to Man City after Elliot Anderson decision

Manchester City and Manchester United are both keen to secure Elliot Anderson's signature this summer. And it has set the stage for a tense summer battle between the two Premier League heavyweights.

It was reported this week that the Blues are convinced they have sealed the deal. However, United remain determined to land a player who has emerged as one of the division's standout midfielders.

Anderson, 23, is understood to have made his decision that he prefers a move to the Etihad over Old Trafford. But the deal isn't done until the player has signed on the dotted line.

Another player who shone at the weekend is ex-City midfielder Shea Charles. The 22-year-old netted the decisive goal for Southampton as they knocked Arsenal out of the FA Cup .

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Having begun to contemplate a possible quadruple, Arsenal's fans are now fully focused on the Premier League and Champions League . This follows back-to-back defeats in the League Cup final (to City) and FA Cup.

Charles has flourished since departing City in 2023 for an initial £10.5million having made just one senior outing for Pep Guardiola's team. However, there's also an additional £4.5m that could be triggered through performance-related clauses.

Charles has established himself at St Mary's this season after spending last campaign on loan at Sheffield Wednesday. And while the Saints may not make it back to the top flight themselves this term, the player could land a swift comeback of his own.

It's being suggested United are among several Premier League clubs keen on securing Charles in the summer. More than one midfielder is desired this summer at Old Trafford, and their director of football Jason Wilcox was at Southampton when they brought in Charles and a number of City academy graduates.

Should United or any other club make the move for Charles this summer, they will be indirectly handing millions to City. On top of the fees they've already pocketed for the Northern Ireland international, they included a sell-on clause that will deliver 25 per cent of any profit Southampton generate on Charles.

The biggest transfer tussle in the summer window will be over Forest's Anderson as both clubs seek to secure a marquee signing. But whatever unfolds there, United could end up strengthening City's finances if they pursue their interest in Charles.

Southampton defeated fellow promotion contenders Wrexham on Tuesday to boost their prospects of a return to the Premier League and are concluding the season as one of the form sides ahead of the play-offs. Promotion could enhance Southampton's likelihood of retaining Charles, although it would also push up his price tag for any prospective suitors.